Jedrzejczyk debuted in the Octagon last July, fighting Juliana Lima (8-2) to a unanimous decision. She followed that fight with a split decision win over Claudia Gadelha (12-1) before taking the belt from Esparza in March via TKO in round two.

Penne last fought Randa Markos (5-2) in December 2014 at The Ultimate Fighter finale, earning a split decision win. While a contestant on The Ultimate Fighter, Penne beat Lisa Ellis (15-10) and Aisling Daly (15-6) to secure a spot in the semi-finals, where she lost a decision to long-time friend Carla Esparza.

In an interview with the UFC, the six-time Muay Thai champion talked about the advantages Europeans have over Americans, her amplified celebrity, and her upcoming title defense. From the interview:

“European fighters are complete MMA fighters. We are not just focused on wrestling or grappling or jiu-jitsu. We are doing all kind of things: striking, boxing, Muay Thai. That’s why we will become the best fighters in the world. Most of the time, the American fighters are focused on just wrestling or just one part of the preparation. This is the mistake Carla made.”

On her new life as champion back home: “The media are talking about me. I was a busy person before my title fight and now I’m very busy. But I’m happy. I get more attention from everybody, not just from young people watching MMA. I feel that I am important for them. I want to represent my city, my country and I want to represent Europe as well.”

On Penne: “I have lots of respect her, she’s got lots of experience. But she must be ready for me and I don’t know that she can be. We’re going to play my game in the Octagon.”